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It’s no secret that the pickup truck market is a cash cow for many automakers, and with small pickups gaining popularity again, should a Kia Telluride pickup truck be considered?
Kia Telluride Forums recently released a rendering of what they think a truck based on the new Telluride three-row SUV could look like. With Kia’s sister brand Hyundai also considering entering the compact pickup market with the Santa Cruz, it wouldn’t be crazy for a larger mid-size truck from Kia.
Although it would have unibody construction, the renders picture the Telluride pickup as off-road focused. Although the Telluride’s AWD system sends power to the front axle by default, the system can also be locked for even distribution. The truck will be powered by the same 3.8-liter V6 that outputs 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.
Although pickup trucks from Asian automakers (with the exception of Toyota), don’t perform that well in terms of sales, this Telluride truck actually looks pretty good. It certainly looks better than the Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger, and aging Nissan Frontier, but perhaps isn’t as solid as the Tacoma. Do you think it could be a success? Let us know in the comments.
Discuss this article on our Kia Telluride Forum
The post Should a Kia Telluride Pickup Truck be Considered? appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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The Kia HabaNiro is a peppery concept car that was just revealed at the New York International Auto Show.
This design study is fully electric, offering an advertised range of 300 miles (483 km). The battery technology delivering this figure is not mentioned, though it is described as being “advanced” and “state of the art.” Additionally, this Kia seats four people, sports all-wheel and even offers cutting-edge level-five autonomous driving capability.
SEE ALSO: Kia Stinger Review
HabaNiro also rolls on 20-inch wheels and features short overhangs both front and rear. Further dressing things up are satin aluminum skid plates, billet tow hooks and bright-red-anodized accent pieces. Additionally, the daytime-running lights pulse like a heartbeat, suggesting the vehicle is alive.
Despite its high-style design, complete with butterfly-wing doors, this vehicle is not meant to be some pie-in-the-sky concept, rather “a prescient look into the future of mobility,” at least according to the press release sent out by the South Korean automaker.
SEE ALSO: 2019 New York Auto Show Coverage
Inside, there’s just as much cutting-edge technology as on the outside. The cabin is finished in a searing lava red color, while the entire windshield is transformed into a head-up display. This is controlled by a touchpad mounted on the vehicle’s concave instrument panel. The Technical Option Sharing System, TOSS for short, lets users easily rearrange things on that gigantic display.
Passenger comfort is handled by the HabaNiro’s Perimeter Ventilation System. It evenly distributes air throughout the cabin. The geometrically patterned floor glows with soft ambient lighting.
As for self-driving functionality, this concept’s steering wheel and instrument panel retract when it’s operating autonomously. This provides greater space for passengers and more comfort.
ALSO SEE: Top 5 Best AWD Hatchbacks: 2019
Kia is coy about whether the HabaNiro will ever be built. Certainly, some of the technologies this design study features are a bit too out there, but other underlying features, like the electric drivetrain, are more likely than not close to production-ready.
Discuss this story on our Kia Forum
The post Kia Unveils All-Electric, Self-Driving Concept Car With Punny Name appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Kia’s sexy Stinger blurs the lines between sedan and station wagon, brandishing athletic design, riotous dynamics and an upscale interior. Giving enthusiasts even more of what they love, the automaker will offer an enhanced model starting this spring.
Featuring real carbon fiber trim on the grille, mirror housings and side vents, the Stinger GTS is a special-edition vehicle, with production capped at just 800 units. These cars will also be offered in a retina-searing bright-orange paint job and come dressed up with special badges.
Motivating this liftback is a standard 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Rated at 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque, it’s paired to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, a combo that provides scorching acceleration.
SEE ALSO: Kia Stinger Wins AutoGuide.com’s 2018 Car of the Year Award
Offering drivers choice, the Stinger GTS will be available in rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations. Cars equipped with the traction-enhancing system gain a few additional benefits. Kia calls this system D-AWD and it’s designed to make the vehicle behave more like a pure rear-driven car. It features a mechanical limited-slip differential for enhanced control in dicey conditions, plus it offers a drift mode, where 100 percent of available torque gets routed to the rear for smoky burnouts, power slides and other irresponsible-but-oh-so-fun hoonage. The transmission will also hold gears so you can keep those tires roasting if obliterating pricey rubber is your hobby.
The drive-mode selector also features other settings including Comfort, with sends up to 60 percent of torque to the rear wheels for stable performance. Sport mode routes 80 percent of available twist to the back for even an even more engaging drive.
SEE ALSO: 2019 New York Auto Show Coverage
The Stinger’s already upscale interior is further enhanced by the addition of Alcantara trim on the steering wheel and center console. Looking skyward, the headliner is trimmed in something called Chamude, a suede-like material. A sunroof is also standard, ditto for a 720-watt Harmon/Kardon sound system and wireless charging for supported mobile devices.
Production of the Kia Stinger GTS is slated to commence this spring. Base price for a rear-wheel-drive example is projected to be $44,995 including an estimated $995 in delivery fees. If you’d prefer an example with four driven wheels, plan on spending an additional $2,500.
Discuss this story on our Kia Forum
The post Kia Building Special-Edition Stinger GTS appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Kia has used the 2019 Seoul Motor Show to give us a glimpse into the future of its crossover portfolio.
The Korean automaker debuted two new concepts at its home auto show this week: the rugged Kia Masterpiece and youthful Kia Signature, which “both provide an insight into how Kia could develop its model line-up in future, in terms of design, layout and use of technology,” the company says.
First up is the Masterpiece. Described as rugged and robust, the Masterpiece appears more tough and boxy than many of Kia’s current crossovers. It has a “purposeful SUV stance and raised body, and a powerful all-wheel-drive system,” that gives it “go-anywhere capability,” Kia says. To our eye, it looks like a Telluride with a higher ride height and more dramatic front and rear lighting elements.
SEE ALSO: Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Sportage: How Are the Crossovers Different? Which One is Right for You?
The Signature is more typical for Kia. This is actually an evolution of the Kia SP Concept showed at last year’s Delhi Auto Show in India and “hints at the company’s plans to introduce a new small SUV for its global markets.” It features an evolved version of Kia’s tiger nose grille and youthful design elements that are intended to attract “young trendsetters.” Kia says the Signature’s design will also influence other “future models destined for Kia’s global markets.”
Both the Kia Masterpiece and the Kia Signature concepts will be on display for the duration of the 2019 Seoul Motor Show in South Korea.
ALSO SEE: Where is Kia From and Where are Kias Made?
Discuss this story on our Kia Forum
The post Kia Masterpiece and Signature SUV Concepts Hint at Future Designs appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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If vehicle dependability matters, you should probably avoid the following 10 models.
Recently, Consumer Reports published the results of its 2018 Annual Auto Reliability Survey. Far and away dependability is the No. 1 purchase consideration of new-vehicle shoppers. That’s at least according to the influential watchdog organization. In fact, it beats out performance, price and even fuel economy.
Moving on, here are some of the most problem-prone vehicles you can buy right now.
10. Honda Odyssey
Landing in 10th place is the Honda Odyssey. Wait, WHAT? A Honda on a list of MOST UNRELIABLE VEHICLES? That’s just hard to believe. But according to Consumer Reports, body hardware and interior electronics proved to be major trouble spots. Somewhat offsetting these deficits, this minivan is comfortable, refined and economical.
ALSO SEE: Top 10 Most Reliable Cars
9. Volkswagen Atlas
Next on this list of underachieving autos is the Volkswagen Atlas. Despite offering respectable driving dynamics, a hushed cabin and even a third-row seat that adults can actually fit in, this three-row utility vehicle was savaged for its cantankerous climate-control system and troublesome transmission, among other minor issues.
ALSO SEE: Volkswagen Atlas V6 Review
8. Buick Enclave
Edging out the Atlas in projected unreliability is the Buick Enclave. Also a three-row crossover, Consumer Reports liked its quiet and spacious interior, easy-to-use infotainment system and comfortable ride. But minor transmission issues, as well as problematic climate-control and emissions systems, really hurt it.
SEE ALSO: Is Tesla’s Elon Musk Crazy or a Genius? – The Short List
7. Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Heavy Duty
Falling below these also-rans is the Chevy Silverado 2500 HD. It’s kind of weird seeing a big, tough truck on this list, but apparently, Consumer Reports subscribers said they’ve had major engine issues with these pickups as well as noises and leaks, plus troublesome in-vehicle electronics, a recurring theme on this list.
6. Kia Cadenza
In the No. 6 position on this Bottom-10 List is the Kia Cadenza sedan. It competes with larger four-doors like the Chevrolet Impala and Toyota Avalon. The Cadenza is roomy and quiet, with easy-to-use technology, though problematic climate control, fuel and emissions systems were its undoing.
5. Chevrolet Traverse
Moving along, the Chevrolet Traverse is also one of the most unreliable vehicles available today. Much like its sibling the Buick Enclave, minor transmission issues and problematic electronics landed it in the middle of this list, a pity, really, because it’s an attractive and highly functional vehicle.
4. Honda Clarity
Surprisingly, the No. 4 finisher here is another Honda, specifically the Japanese automaker’s cutting-edge Clarity sedan. This futuristic vehicle is offered as an electric, a plug-in hybrid and even with a hydrogen fuel-cell drivetrain. Can you say complexity? Issues that dragged it down in reliability rankings include weaknesses in the climate control, fuel and emissions systems as well as problems with body hardware.
SEE ALSO: 12 Facts About Alfa Romeo You Should Know – The Short List
3. Cadillac ATS
Nimble and sharp, the Cadillac ATS is an absolute driver’s car, with a buttoned-down ride and peppy turbocharged four-cylinder engine or smooth-running V6. A convoluted infotainment system and cramped interior detract from the overall experience, as do glitches with its climate controls, in-car electronics and driveline. Perhaps this is why Cadillac is killing off the ATS.
2. Tesla Model X
Tesla’s Model X is the second-least reliable vehicle according to Consumer Reports. Despite its driving finesse, futuristic interior and respectable all-electric range, it was failed by issues with body hardware, noises and leaks as well as cantankerous interior electronics.
1. Ram 3500 Heavy Duty
Finally, we come to the most unreliable vehicle. Surprisingly, it’s another heavy-duty pickup, the Ram 3500 HD. Able to tow massive trailers and haul heaping loads without breaking a sweat, this tough truck is nonetheless undermined by issues with its steering, suspension, fuel, emissions and engine-cooling systems. It’s even dogged by various noises and leaks, again, at least according to Consumer Reports.
Check out more episodes of The Short List
The post Top 10 Most Unreliable Cars – The Short List appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Another Geneva Motor Show is in the rear-view mirror, which means it’s time for us to start making fun of all the stuff we didn’t like.
Accordingly, here’s our obligatory list of winners and losers, a specially curated selection of vehicles hand picked by the AutoGuide.com staff. For a little extra balance, we’ve also included a few undecided options.
SEE ALSO: 2019 Geneva Motor Coverage
WINNER: Vanquish Vision Concept
Aston Martin is firing on all cylinders, debuting a trio of design studies in Switzerland. Arguably the coolest of the bunch is this, the Vanquish Vision Concept. Despite the McLaren-esque proportions, it previews the British Brand’s first mid-engine production model. In typical fashion, it features an aluminum structure, but what’s not expected for Aston Martin is the power source, a turbocharged and hybridized V6.
ALSO SEE: Aston Martin Unveils Three Stunning New Concept Cars
WINNER: Honda e Prototype
Next up, something at the opposite end of the spectrum. Honda’s e Prototype hints at the Japanese brand’s first battery-electric production vehicle. An urban runabout, it offers a driving range of 200-kilometers – about 125 miles – and can be charged to 80 percent capacity in as little as 30 minutes. Unusual for a Honda, this car is rear-wheel drive. The production model is slated to debut later this year as a 2020 model, possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
WINNER: Alfa Romeo Tonale
crossovers, Crossovers, CROSSOVERS! The world just can’t get enough of these things. Helping satiate demand, Alfa Romeo unveiled a new premium compact SUV in Geneva. Smaller than their acclaimed Stelvio, Tonale is the Italian brand’s first plug-in hybrid. Basically, zero details about its drivetrain have been shared at this time, but it promises best-in-segment dynamics, which we’d expect it to deliver. With classic styling and a sweeping interior, it at least looks like a winner.
WINNER: Bugatti La Voiture Noire
Now for what was perhaps the star of this year’s Geneva show, a mega-pricey, one-off creation from Bugatti. Called La Voiture Noire, which translates rather fittingly to “the black car,” this creation was clearly inspired by Darth Vader, or the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic. Your pick…
Power is provided by a 16-cylinder engine that delivers about 1,500 horses. This one-of-one grand-tourer sold for nearly $13 million. Whoever bought it can sleep soundly at night knowing that nobody else is going to roll in in a La Voiture Noire at their local cars and coffee.
UNDECIDED: Mazda CX-30
Shifting gears, let’s focus on a few of Geneva’s UNDECIDED reveals. And the new Mazda CX-30 crossover is a bit of a head-scratcher. Size-wise, it’s intended to slot between the CX-3 and CX-5 models. But this raises a couple questions: One, why do they need a vehicle sandwiched in the middle of these two offerings? And two, shouldn’t it just be called CX-4? On the plus side, this thing is beautifully styled and will likely be brilliant to drive.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Engines of 2019
UNDECIDED: Subaru Viziv Concept
The Subaru Viziv Adrenaline Concept is yet another installment of the automaker’s Viziv range of design studies. It showcases the bolder, more exciting direction Subaru styling is supposedly heading. While we certainly wouldn’t call it ugly, neither is it breathtaking. Of course, since this is a concept, powertrain, pricing and other details are unknown, but we’d still bet this is an early look at the next-generation Crosstrek. Your thoughts?
UNDECIDED: Volkswagen ID BUGGY
The last UNDECIDED vehicle on this list is the Volkswagen ID BUGGY concept. A battery-powered dune-hopper, it demonstrates what the company can do with its advanced MEB electric-vehicle architecture. This thing’s got a 62 kWh battery and a 201-horsepower motor, both of which can deliver 62 miles an hour in as little as 7.2 seconds. The ID BUGGY is kind of cool, and there are rumblings they’ll actually build it, but we shall see if it makes it to production without being completely watered down.
LOSER: Imagine by Kia
Moving on to the LOSERS, we start with the Imagine by Kia concept, which may have the worst name of the entire Geneva show. Predictably, it’s an all-electric design study that vaguely resembles a crossover. It’s got a six-layer paint job, 22-inch wheels and even a continuous piece of glass that forms both the windshield and roof. Upping the ridiculousness, it’s gussied up with 21 individual screens inside, like someone shuffled a stack of smartphones. According to the press release it’s “designed to get your pulse racing.” Yeah, OK.
SEE ALSO: 2019 Detroit Auto Show Winners and Losers — The Short List
LOSER: Ginetta Akula
With supercars, you expect certain design flair, but the Ginetta Akula is just too friggin’ weird. This thing’s got more gills than a school of sardines! Unsurprisingly for an exotic, it’s made of carbon fiber and features a mid-mounted engine. It also brandishes 600 horsepower and can hit 200 miles an hour. Aside from the design, there’s another BIG downside. It costs more than half-a-million dollars.
LOSER: Smart Forease+
And the last LOSER we’ve got here is the Smart Forease+, which made its official debut in Geneva. If you remember back to the Paris show last fall, the automaker revealed a concept called the Forease. Well, this is essentially the same thing but with a removable roof. It’s kind of like microwaving leftovers, right?
Check out more episodes of The Short List
The post Winners and Losers from the 2019 Geneva Motor Show – The Short List appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Updated March 2019
This winter just doesn’t seem to want to go away. During these soul-crushingly low temperatures, we’ve become quite fond of cars that are equipped with heated steering wheels, a premium feature that doesn’t need to be reserved for expensive luxury vehicles.
Folks in southern states might not get the appeal, but for drivers who live in colder climates, a heated tiller is like a warm hug for your hands. Why not wear gloves you may ask? Well, so many cars have touch-screen infotainment systems or small buttons that make using gloves in a car cumbersome.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Most Dependable Automakers of 2019: J.D. Power
After spending some time configuring hundreds of them, we came up with this list of affordable nameplates that are equipped with a heated steering wheel. Would you be surprised to know that you can get a car with such features for under $30,000? The price tag on most affordable model may surprise you too. All prices include destination and packaging information.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Used Car Bargains: 2019
This list is in no particular order – all vehicles on this list are priced between $20,000 to $30,000 and have a heated steering wheel.
Kia Optima EX (W/ Premium Package)
The first car on this list is the 2019 Kia Optima EX. Equipped with the premium package, the Optima EX becomes a cold-weather warrior, featuring not just a heated steering wheel but heated front and rear seats too. The EX model with the premium package is also well equipped for when the sun comes out, as it sports a nice panoramic sunroof and ventilated driver’s seat. All those features for just $30,915 before destination and tax mean this a pretty solid value in the segment.
2019 Dodge Journey GT
Don’t stop believing in the features found in the family-friendly Dodge Journey. Dodge Journey GT models come standard with heated seats and a heated steering wheel and start at $26,740 before destination and tax. This trim also gets you the V6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission and comes with a remote starter, perforated leather seating and 19-inch wheels.
See Also: The Weirdest Car Accessories
Dodge Challenge SXT
Another Dodge makes our list, but it certainly isn’t the last car from the Fiat-Chrysler Alliance. We found that you can equip a $26,590 Dodge Challenger SXT with a $495 cold weather group package, which adds heated front seats and a heated front steering wheel, turning this rear-wheel drive muscle car into a cozy place when the temperature drops. Of course, the Challenger is saddled with a V6 at that price. If you want more power, you can always spring the extra cash for the R/T model, which hosts a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 under its hood. There’s also the Scat Pack or SRT models which use 6.4-liter V8s. Of course, if horsepower is what you’re after, maybe you can skip all the pleasantries and go straight for the Challenger Hellcat, which makes 707 HP.
SEE ALSO: 2019 Dodge Challenger GT AWD Review
Buick Regal Sportback
You haven’t forgotten about Buick, have you? Well GM’s premium brand can always deliver on the promise of value when you get the Buick Regal Preferred II trim, which comes with a heated multifunction steering wheel as standard. It also gets a push-button start, dual zone automatic climate control, a blind spot monitoring system and an 8-inch infotainment display. Don’t forget the standard 4G LTE in-car wifi that comes with the 2019 Buick Regal. All that for just $30,695? Sounds like a pretty good deal.
Jeep Cherokee
Although there may be some people who wouldn’t dare buy a front-wheel drive Jeep, the new Jeep Cherokee may change their mind. The sport model, can come well equipped for just under $25,000, especially when you tack on the $895 Cold Weather Group which adds heated seats, a heated steering wheel, an engine block heater, a remote start system, a windshield wiper de-icer and heated mirrors. All of those are essential for those living in really cold regions.
See Also: Do you Even Lift? How Jack It is More than an Online Suspension Parts Store
Kia Soul
Another entry on our list comes in the way of the quirky, $21,485 Kia Soul. Under the hood is a a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 164 hp and earns 31 MPG on the highway, but once you add the $4,500 Primo Package, the Soul’s features are hard to beat. The package comes with a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats and the ever important heated steering wheel. It all makes you wonder if there was there a fire sale on features at Kia HQ.
Nissan Altima
The 2019 Nissan Altima in SV trim, which starts at $28,080, features a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel as standard. That trim level also comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, Nissan’s ProPilot Assist suite of semi-autonomous driving functions, 17-inch alloy wheels and more. It’s a decent deal for a fairly well equipped four-door.
Nissan Rogue Sport
The Nissan Rogue Sport has a heated steering wheel as standard in SL trim, which starts at $27,960. That’s a decent deal for a crossover of this size and you also get leather-trimmed seats, Nissan’s ProPilot Assist suite of semi-autonomous driving functions, 19-inch alloy wheels, navigation and other useful features.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Least Dependable Automakers 2019: J.D. Power
The post Cheapest Cars With a Heated Steering Wheel appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Kia is a popular brand in North America, but many Canadians and Americans may not know the origins of the brand, why it has a close relationship with Hyundai, or where the company makes its vehicles.
SEE ALSO: 2019 Kia Forte Review
In this post, we’ll explain Kia’s origins and also list every plant the company operates that serves the North American market. Just like its sister brand Hyundai, Kia is an international company, so it builds cars in many different places for many different markets, but this post will only focus on its North American-serving plants.
Where is Kia From?
Kia was founded in Seoul, South Korea, in 1944 and was originally called Kyungsung Precision Industry before changing its name to Kia Industries in 1956. Kia’s global headquarters are still located in Seoul today. It solely produced vehicles under license from other automakers such as Ford, Mazda, Fiat, and Peugeot and enjoyed a good degree of success both domestically in Korea and abroad, but went bankrupt amidst the Asian Financial Crisis in the late 1990s.
SEE ALSO: Kia Stinger Review
Rival South Korean automaker Hyundai purchased a 51% stake in Kia in 1998, outbidding Ford in the process, and remains Kia’s largest single stakeholder today. While Hyundai now owns only one-third of Kia, the companies have a strange ownership structure in which Kia also owns small stakes in several Hyundai companies, closely intertwining the companies. The companies share many platforms and engines for their vehicles.
Where Are Kias Made?
Sohari Plant – Gwangmyeong, South Korea
Kia K900
Kia Stinger
Kia Sedona
Hwaseong Plant – Woojeong-myeon, South Korea
Kia Cadenza
Kia Niro
Gwanju Plant – Gwanju, South Korea
Kia Soul
Kia Sportage
Monterrey Plant – Monterrey, Mexico
Kia Forte
Kia Rio
Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia – West Point, Georgia
Kia Sorrento
Kia Optima
Ulsan Plant (Hyundai) – Ulsan, South Korea
Kia Telluride
SEE ALSO: Where is Hyundai From and Where are Hyundais Made?
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Where Is Toyota From and Where Are Toyotas Made?
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Kia has updated its popular Sportage utility vehicle for the 2020 model year, unveiling it at the Chicago Auto Show.
This crossover gains a variety of new features and a fresh look. Outside, the front bumper has been reworked plus there’s a new grille, bumper, air intake, and skid plate.
The headlamps have been overhauled, as have its standard projector-beam fog lights. For drivers that want more, both are available in LED form for extra output with reduced current draw.
At the 2020 Kia Sportage’s rear, you’ll find a similarly redesigned bumper and skid plate. The exhaust tips have been tweaked as well.
For added visual pizzazz, a new crop of wheels is on the menu. They span between 17 and 19 inches. Of course, all-wheel drive is also offered.
SEE ALSO: Complete 2019 Chicago Auto Show Coverage
Inside, this Kia’s cabin has been lightly enhanced. There’s newly available leatherette seating surfaces and a standard eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto baked right in. The steering wheel and vent bezels have been changed and wireless charging is available.
Two engines are offered including a base 2.4-liter unit that’s good for 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. For drivers that want more of each, a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is also on the menu. It’s good for 240 ponies and 260 units of twist. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox offered.
Keeping up with rival automakers, the new Sportage can be equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance technology. Lane keeping assist, smart cruise control with stop and start and automatic high beams are a few of its fancy new amenities.
For 2020 this crossover will be offered in four trim levels: S, the newest addition, LX, EX and SX.
The latest-generation Sportage is slated to go on sale in the second half of 2019. No pricing information is available yet.
Discuss this story on our Kia Forum
The post Kia Sportage Mildly Spruced Up for 2020 appeared first on AutoGuide.com.
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Kia has finally embraced the American mindset with its biggest vehicle ever. Called the Telluride, this eight-seat crossover has been designed from the ground up with the U.S. in mind.
This boxy SUV features three rows and seating for eight, which will allow it to compete with other large three-row crossovers like the Dodge Durango, Subaru Ascent, Honda Pilot, and VW Atlas. While the automaker already offers the three-row Sorento crossover and the family-friendly Sedona minivan, this Telluride is meant to deliver a more luxurious ride and will appeal to those with an adventurous side.
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The boxy exterior just screams ruggedness, but the interior is the complete opposite, featuring many premium and luxurious touches. Try not to be impressed at the double-stitched Nappa leather, or the brushed metal and matte-finished wood finishes.
Furthermore, the car is offered with a lot of convenience features that will appeal to the road-tripping family, like the second-row heated and vented seats, reclining third-row, and six USB ports. The driver’s voice can broadcast to the rear seats and there is a rear seat occupant reminder that uses ultrasonic sensors to detect whether there’s anyone in the back so no one gets mistakenly left behind.
ALSO SEE: 2019 Detroit Auto Show Coverage
There’s a ton of technology on tap in the cabin like an available 10.25-inch color touchscreen and a 630-watt, 10-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, not to mention Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and wireless charging.
There are also many driver assistance features, and not just the usual stuff like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane keep assistance. In addition to that, there are features like highway driving assist, which uses radar and LiDAR systems to recognize lane markings and lets the vehicle control the steering, acceleration, and braking to automatically adjust its distance from the vehicle ahead. The Telluride has a number of high-tech safety features to help keep its occupants safe as well as other motorists.
Under the hood is a 3.8-liter V6 that makes 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque that’s paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It can be paired with an all-wheel-drive system that features a lock setting to evenly split the power between the front and rear. There are a few other drive modes that change the power distribution. The Telluride can tow up to 5,000 lbs, which is on par with other vehicles it competes with. The ride should be nice and comfy especially since the vehicle can be had with a self-leveling rear suspension.
Price is yet to be shared but there will be four trims available when the car hits dealerships sometime next year.
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